How to prepare for an Ohio State gameday

By: Julia Murphy

The Columbus Dispatch

The importance of game day weekends

It’s Saturday in Columbus, and that can only mean one thing: Buckeye football. Students, alumni and Columbus residents gather around the stadium to cheer on their favorite team. Whether you are a first-year student or a lifelong fan, there’s nothing quite like the energy that is felt through campus on gameday. The excitement of dressing up in scarlett and grey, hanging out with friends or  experiencing the environment in the Shoe is unmatched. Walking down High Street, it is impossible not to run into a familiar face and to miss the echoes of “O-H!” across the Oval. Ohio State gamedays are what make the university so special and  filled with decade-old traditions.

Preparing for game days, however, is a special skill. Between navigating crowds, finding the best tailgate and showing up ready to cheer, a little planning can make the day unforgettable.

Creating the perfect outfit

Scarlet and gray are non-negotiable. Whether you go all out with a jersey and face paint or keep it classic with a Block “O” tee, showing team spirit is a must. There are so many places around campus to get the perfect gear, from the Ohio State Team Shop to Rally House on Lane Avenue, you will be able to dress head to toe in gear for every home game. The streets of Columbus are filled with fans dressed in sweatshirts and sweaters, to dresses and jerseys, no matter what you wear, you can not go wrong. Being comfortable is one of the most important aspects to consider when picking a game day outfit. Wear shoes you can walk in (you’ll thank yourself later) and check the weather before heading out. Game days at Ohio State can get cold, especially later in the season. Rain or shine, Buckeye fans show up, but dressing smart keeps you cheering through all four quarters.

Eleven Warriors

Planning for an early morning

Game day mornings on campus feel different; you can almost hear the buzz building before the sun’s even up. If you live near the stadium, you can hear the sounds of the marching band going down the street. The sidewalks fill fast, and traffic around campus gets hectic hours before kickoff. There are many great places around campus to walk to grab breakfast before game day activities begin, including Playa Bowls, Hangover Easy and First Watch. You will need the fuel for a long day of cheering.

If you are joining a student tailgate or block party, make a plan with your group ahead of time; it will save you from morning stress. Columbus is filled with places to watch the game or to meet up with people. While early mornings are hard, they are worth it for Ohio State Football. The excitement on game days is something you never want to miss.

Embrace the traditions

Traditions make Ohio State football special; they are what keep alumni coming back. Every part of your day will be filled up, but it is up to you on how you want to embrace OSU traditions. Even seasoned fans who go to every game get excited to hear “Hang on Sloopy”  echo through the stadium.

The New York Times

Be sure to take part in the traditions that make gameday special, whether that’s joining in the “O-H-I-O” chants, singing along to the band or celebrating big plays with the people around you. Those small moments of connection are what make Buckeye Nation feel like one big family.

After the final whistle

Win or lose, postgame in Columbus is its own celebration. Crowds flood into the Short North or into the campus streets, keeping the spirit alive long after the clock hits zero. There are countless places to go and continue to have fun with friends and family.

Above all, gameday is about community, students, alumni and fans coming together to celebrate something bigger than themselves. Ohio State is so special, and football game days are part of what makes the university a special place. Everyone comes together to cheer on the same team and there is so much to enjoy. Being prepared and knowing what you need to have the best day game day will help you experience Ohio State to its full potential.